- Overview: The Indian Air Force (IAF) has successfully tested the indigenous ‘Rudram-2’ Next-Generation Anti-Radiation Missile (NGARM) from a Sukhoi-30MKI fighter jet, successfully destroying a simulated radar target.
- Key Points:
- SEAD Mission Capability: SEAD (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) missions are critical in modern warfare. This missile is designed specifically to detect, track, and destroy enemy radar and communication towers.
- Hypersonic Speed: The missile enters a hypersonic terminal phase, meaning it strikes so fast that enemy defense systems cannot intercept it.
- Operational Range: With a range exceeding 300 km, IAF pilots can safely destroy enemy air defenses without entering hostile airspace.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat: This homegrown technology replaces the aging Russian Kh-31 missiles, ensuring India’s strategic independence in precision-guided munitions.
- Defense Exam Relevance: Crucial for AFCAT/CDS (Air Force Weapons)
Source Link: DRDO Official Testing Updates
- Q1. In modern aerial warfare, what is the primary objective of a ‘SEAD’ (Suppression of Enemy Air Defenses) mission?
- A) To intercept incoming enemy ballistic missiles in the stratosphere.
- B) To neutralize or destroy surface-based enemy air defense systems like SAMs and radars.
- C) To drop unguided bombs on enemy infantry battalions.
- D) To refuel friendly fighter aircraft deep inside hostile territory.
